Some of the world’s most delicious foods become even better in pairs: peanut butter and jelly, macaroni and cheese, mashed potatoes and gravy. But watermelon and tomato? Seems unlikely, right? Don’t write this dish off just yet. Both of these fruits are in season and at their prime during the summer months. This salad’s combination of flavors may just have every one of your taste buds begging for more.
First, let’s check out what a few of the ingredients of this recipe have to offer:
Tomatoes: With its low sodium, saturated fat and cholesterol levels, this fruit is a great addition to any salad. This popular garden plant is an excellent source of vitamin E, thiamin, dietary fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium. Tomatoes also contain a large amount of lycopene, which is an antioxidant that may prevent many types of cancer and premature aging.
Watermelon: Like the tomato, this sweet-tasting fruit also contains lycopene. Like the other members of the Fruit group, it is low in sodium, fat, and cholesterol. It is a great source of potassium, vitamin A and vitamin C.
Mint leaves: For centuries mint has been enjoyed by populations all over the world. In addition to its delectable taste, mint leaves have also been shown to sooth the digestive tract, reduce the severity and length of stomachaches, and can even ease the discomfort associated with irritable bowel syndrome.
Now that you know the countless health benefits this salad has to offer you, whip up a bowl!
This salad offers something for every part of your palette with its sweet, salty and sour flavors.
Photo by carmyarmyofme/Courtesy Flickr
SERVES 8
• 1 (4 pound) chilled seedless watermelon, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 3 tomatoes (preferably green or orange), seeded and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 sweet onion, thinly sliced
• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
1. Gently toss the watermelon, tomatoes, onion and mint together in a large bowl.
2. Add the feta cheese.
3. Season with salt.
4. Gently toss again to combine.